Gallantry Mechanized

http://www.google.com/patents?id=IvFQAAAAEBAJ&dq=james+boyle+hat+1896

James Boyle patented this hands-free hat-tipping device in 1896.

“The hat is detachably secured to the working parts of the device that raise the hat, completely rotate it, and deposit it correctly on the head of the wearer every time said person bows his head and then assumes an erect posture.”

There’s no record of how the ladies received it.